Ripplecom acquires Last Mile Broadband assets

Wireless ISP Ripplecom has acquired the broadband network previously operated by Last Mile Broadband for an undisclosed sum. Ripplecom is planning a substantial expansion of its customer base driven by 8Mbps services.

The acquisition includes 2,200 customers in the Midlands and the entire wireless network infrastructure of the Athlone-based wireless service provider.

“The acquisition of Last Mile Broadband’s infrastructure and customer base has further increased our market presence and positions Ripplecom as the primary provider of wireless broadband services to both business and residential customers in Ireland,” John McDonnell, Ripplecom’s managing director, explained.

“Our aim is to expand our customer base over the coming months by delivering up to 8Mb broadband and Voice Services nationally,” he continued.

Ripplecom’s 10g core

“The recent upgrading of our core network to deliver a 10g core gives us the ability to compete with the next-generation broadband speeds of the main players in the Irish marketplace.

“But more importantly, it delivers this capability right out to semi-urban and rural areas also, thus allowing residential customers and businesses all over Ireland to take advantage of high-speed broadband, regardless of their location.

“It is our plan to enhance the Last Mile Broadband network so that the existing customers can opt for next-generation broadband speeds bundled with Ripplecom voice services,” McDonnell said.

Ripplecom is Ireland’s largest wireless internet service provider by geographic coverage. Established in late 2008 and headquartered in Limerick, the company operates in 21 counties with more than 500 access points and more than 8,000 customers.

Last Mile Ltd was founded in 2002 and is headquartered in Athlone. Its wide customer base includes government bodies, local authorities, schools, businesses and residential customers.